Are you dealing with hip pain that doesn’t respond to conservative treatments like rest or ice? If so, you could benefit from a procedure like sacroiliac joint fusion.
Signs you may need this treatment include prolonged pain, tingling, or numbness in the lower back, hips, or legs, along with a limited range of motion that could interfere with daily activities.
At The Spine Center in The Woodlands, Corpus Christi, San Antonio, and Dallas, our team helps patients determine when the sacroiliac joint fusion procedure is the right option for their needs. If you’re wondering how to relieve lower back pain or want to learn more, call now to schedule a consultation.
What is SI joint fusion?
So, what is SI joint fusion? The sacroiliac (SI) joint is what connects the lower spine to the pelvis. When this joint becomes damaged or dysfunctional due to injury, arthritis, or degeneration, it can cause pain and limited range of motion. SI joint fusion can stabilize the joint by using specialized implants that allow the bones to fuse.
Common signs you may need SI joint fusion
Want to know how to relieve lower back pain, hip pain, and more? You may be a candidate for the sacroiliac joint fusion procedure if you experience:
- Chronic pain that radiates into the hips, buttocks, or legs
- Pain that worsens when standing, walking, or going upstairs
- Tingling or numbness in the lower back, hips, or legs
- Hip pain that doesn’t respond to rest or medication
- Limited range of motion that affects your ability to move comfortably
If conservative treatments have failed to relieve your symptoms and your pain is affecting your quality of life, SI joint fusion may be the next step.
How SI joint fusion works
At The Spine Center in The Woodlands, Corpus Christi, San Antonio, and Dallas, we perform this procedure by making a small incision to access the SI joint. Using advanced imaging for precision, specialized instruments are guided into place. Triangular titanium implants are then placed across the sacrum and ilium. These implants provide immediate stability and encourage the bones to fuse together over time.
Because it’s minimally invasive, SI joint fusion requires less disruption of the surrounding muscles and tissues than traditional surgery. Most patients go home the same day and experience fast recovery times.
What to expect after treatment
Recovery from SI joint fusion varies, but most patients notice reduced pain within a few weeks. You’ll need to avoid certain movements and activities during the healing process, but many patients return to normal activities soon afterward.
Long-term results are very positive, with many people experiencing significant relief from chronic pain. The Spine Center will provide detailed aftercare instructions and monitor your progress through follow-up appointments.
Find relief from chronic SI joint pain
Do you have questions such as, “What is SI joint fusion?” or are you experiencing persistent pain, tingling, or numbness in the lower back, hips, or legs? The Spine Center in The Woodlands, Corpus Christi, San Antonio, and Dallas is here to help. Our team specializes in the sacroiliac joint fusion procedure and can show you how to relieve lower back pain when other treatments haven’t worked. Call today to schedule your consultation and learn if this is the right solution for you.